Buccaneers GM Touts Team's Leadership Depth Across Roster

Licht cites mix of veteran and young players as setting tone for Tampa Bay

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:24am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a Buccaneers football game or practice, with sharp planes of pewter grey, red, and blue overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract composition.The Buccaneers' distributed leadership approach aims to cultivate accountability and responsibility across the entire roster.Today in Tampa

Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht emphasized the team's depth of leadership across the roster, highlighting a blend of veteran and younger players who are expected to set the tone. Licht pointed to defensive tackle Vita Vea as a steady presence, while also citing offensive linemen, newcomers like linebacker Alex Anzalone, and emerging talents like defensive tackle Calijah Kancey and safety Tykee Smith as part of the next wave of leaders.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers are looking to rebuild their leadership core after the departures of longtime stars like wide receiver Mike Evans and linebacker Lavonte David. Licht's comments suggest the team is taking a more distributed approach to leadership rather than relying on a few key figures, which could help establish a stronger culture and accountability throughout the roster.

The details

Licht highlighted several players as emerging leaders, including second-round pick Calijah Kancey and fourth-round selection Tykee Smith on the defensive side. On offense, Licht cited the entire offensive line group as setting the tone, while also mentioning younger players like running back Bucky Irving taking on larger voices. The Buccaneers also targeted free agent additions like linebacker Alex Anzalone, running back Kenneth Gainwell, and safety Miles Killebrew as much for their leadership presence as their on-field production.

  • The Buccaneers' comments came during the team's pre-draft press conference on April 17, 2026.

The players

Jason Licht

The general manager of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who discussed the team's leadership depth during a pre-draft press conference.

Vita Vea

A defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, cited by Licht as a steady veteran presence and leader on the team.

Calijah Kancey

A defensive tackle drafted by the Buccaneers in the second round, identified by Licht as part of the team's next wave of emerging leaders.

Tykee Smith

A safety drafted by the Buccaneers in the fourth round, also cited by Licht as an up-and-coming leader on the team.

Bucky Irving

A young player on the Buccaneers' offense who Licht said is starting to take on a larger leadership role.

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What they’re saying

“This roster doesn't hinge on a handful of outspoken figures to set the tone. Instead, the expectation is that leadership shows up everywhere, from vets to younger players, with accountability spread throughout the team.”

— Jason Licht, General Manager

The takeaway

The Buccaneers are taking a more distributed approach to leadership after losing key veteran voices, aiming to establish a culture of accountability and responsibility across the entire roster rather than relying on a few marquee players. This strategy could help the team navigate the post-Tom Brady era and develop a sustainable leadership structure for the long term.